Code programming means



April 11, 1987 c. R. CAHN ETAL 3,314,064

CODE PROGRAMMING MEANS Filed Jan. 8, 1964 2 Sheets-Sheet 2 M k )8 66 w l'l l l g 1/44; a 16 (44w United States Patent York Filed Jan. 8, 1964,Ser. No. 336,554 12 Claims. (Cl. 340-348) This invention relates to acode programming means for coded control and particularly to a pluralityof interconnected random code generating units including code switch.elements which are opened and closed for establishing a predeterminedcoded circuit connection.

The completion of a power circuit to a load is controlled by a pluralityof code generators connected in series witheach other by selectivelypositioned input switches. Each code generator includes a plurality ofparallel branch circuits with a switch at each end of the branchcircuits for closing some and opening others of the branch circuits.Cyclically operated cams are connected to the switches of the generatorsto open the power circuit and also change the required position of theinput switches.

Coded control which permit limited and authorized operation of acontrolled means have been proposed; for example, a remote inventorycontrol for releasing of gasoline at a remotely located storage unit inany desired increments. In the storing and dispensing of gasoline, the,

individual service stations normally include relatively large storagetanks holding quantities of gasoline much greater than that which theaverage service station can afford to have or purchase in an inventory.Coded release mechanisms have been proposed employing code cards ortokens for releasing limited quantities of the gasoline stored withinthe storage tank for subsequent dispensing by the service stationoperator. The supplier can employ the full capacity of the several ofthe storage tanks at the various stations to store gasoline and releasequantities of the gasoline in increments of inventory adapted to theneeds of the service station operator.

Prior art devices however have generally included token operated devicesor code card controls wherein periodic servicing is required. In suchdevices, the release mechanism requires frequent handling of the codemeans and particularly in a code card system demands relatively complexdevices with the high initial investment and danger of malfunctioning ofthe various components.

The present invention is particularly directed to an inexpensive andreliable code generating system producing a sequence of many ditferentcodes before the sequence repeats and within which the sequence is notdiscernible. The code input is simple and can be operated with a minimumof skill. The code generating system employs code generating switchesconnected in a plurality of circuts which are interconnected throughinput selection switches which have a plurality of circuit positions acombination of which completes an output control circuit in accordancewith the setting of the code generating switches.

The present invention is hereinafter described with switches whichcompletely open and close an associated circuit or circuits as theoperating elements in the code generating systems for simplicity andclarity of explanation. The invention may, if desired, incorporate othermeans such as variable resistances or impedances within the broadconcept of this invention, to selectively establish a coded outputcircuit.

In accordance with the present invention, a plurality of code generatorsis provided each including a plurality of paired code generatingswitches of a multiple position construction which are interconnected toprovide a plurality of parallel circuit paths one of which is alwayscompleted. Code selection switches. interconnect the code generatorsinto an output circuit which actuates a suitable control either byestablishing circuit continuity through the code generators and therelease switches or by providing a unique open circuit therein. A codegenerating drive means such as relay operated cams are coupled to thecode generating switches and vary the position of the switches withinthe code generator in a predetermined manner and thereby establish aseries of separate and independent codes each of which requires aparticular positioning of the code selection switches to establish aproper out-put circuit. Generally, the drive means is interconnectedwith the output circuit to step or reposition the switches of the codegenerators in response to a predetermined actuation of the code circuit.

A particularly effective drive means for the switches includes separatestepping cams having a plurality of sequentially set cam only some ofwhich include projections. The corresponding switches are closed in thepresence of a projection and opened in the absence of the projection.The cams are repositioned in a predetermined manner in response to aproper operation of output circuits to establish a new coding of theoutput circuit. The whole code sequence can then be varied simply by theinterchanging of a single cam or the displacing of one with respect toanother.

The number of different codes which can be generated is directly relatedto the number of circuits of each code generating switch and the drivemeans for periodically changing the position of the code generatingswitches.

The code generator of this invention may therefore easily accommodate anexceedingly large number of field variations with the use of identicalbuilding components or blocks. This of course is of great significancewhere a substantial number of separate installations are to be installedin one area such as in coded inventory release systems for servicestations.

The code generation technique is non-repetitive over a great period ofcode numbers. Although the period of each individual switch Within thesystem will allow prediction of the code sequence within a relativelysmall number, the prediction of the code would require an unusualei'lort and time and is not of any practical significance. Greaterperiods are established if desired by interconnecting the drive for thesecond switch non-periodic as by the use of an additional cam todetermine Whether or not the second switch advances or byinterconnecting the drive means for the second switch in an operatingcircuit including one of the circuit connections of the code generator.

In accordance with another important feature of the present invention, adisconnect system is interconnected with the code circuit and responsiveto preselected in1-' proper setting or settings of the circuit alteringmeans to positively disenable the system and require resetting bylimited and authorized personnel.

The present invention thus provides a very relatively simple andinexpensive system for sequentially generating a substantial number ofdiflerent code programs and wherein several similar code operateddevices can be readily provided with completely different codesequences. The structure of the present invention employs rugged andreliable components of a low cost construction and is therefore adaptedto field inventory installations and the like such as service stationsor other industrial plants.

The drawings furnished herewith illustrate one mode presentlycontemplated for carrying out the invention.

In the drawings:

FIG. 1 is a diagrammatic view of a dispensing system having a codedrelease system and illustrating a front panel having the input controlsof a coded release mechanism constructed in accordance with the presentinvention;

FIG. 2 is a schematic circuit diagram of a control circuit incorporatingthe controls shown in FIG. 1;

FIG. 3 is an elevational view of a stepping switch mechanism and codegenerating switches incorporated in the circuit of FIG. 2; and

FIG. 4 is a side elevational view taken from the right of FIG. 3.

Referring to the drawings and particularly to FIG. 1, a pair ofconventional service station dispensing pumps 1 is shown mounted insuitably spaced relation to a central storage tank 2 which is buriedwithin the ground. Individual suction lines 3 connect the pump 1 to thetank 2.

Each pump 1 is of any suitable construction and is generally shownincluding a dispensing nozzle 4 which is connected to the output side ofthe suction line 3 and permits selective discharge of fuel from thecentral storage tank 2. A computer 5 is provided for recording thegallonage and the cost of the fuel which is dispensed at each operation.The computer 5 establishes a mechanical movement in accordance. with thefuel flow which movement is translated into a visual gallonage and costreading in accordance with well-known construction. A stub shaft 6projects outwardly of one side of the computer 5 within the pump 1 andis driven in synchronism and proportion to the fuel flow.

A pump-motor unit 7 is housed within the pump 1 and connected in thesuction line 3 for propelling the fuel out of the nozzle 4. Suitablepower lines 8 are connected to energize the pump-motor unit 7 inresponse to proper operation of the dispensing nozzle 4 which normallyincludes a suitable pump-motor unit switch control, not shown.

A small signal transmitter 9 is mounted within the pump 1 and isconnected to be driven in synchronism with the discharge of fuel. fromthe pump 1 in any suitable manner, such as by a flexible shaft 10vconnecting the transmitter 9 to the stub shaft 6.

The transmitter 9 may be of any suitable construction such as the switchdescribed in the copending application of James H. McGaughey entitled,Control System, and which was filed on Feb. 9, 1961, with Ser. No.88,208 and which is assigned to a common assignee. The transmitterestablishes a control signal which is transmitted over control signallines 11 to actuate a gasoline control release mechanism 12 mounted inthe wall 13 of a service building or the like, not shown. A front panel14 of the release mechanism 12 is mounted flush. with the wall 13 with acounter 15 disposed behind an opening 16 in panel 14 for visual readingof the counter 15 which indicates the quantity of gasoline which hasbeen released for subsequent delivery through the pumps 1. The counter15 I controls the operating circuit of pumps 1 as subsequently describedand disenables the pumps 1 when a zero reading is established. Thecounter 15 is preset from zero to release a corresponding increment ofthe stored gasoline. As the gasoline is withdrawn from the storage tank2, the counter 15 is actuated through a suitable fluid responsive driveto subtract from the counter reading and continuously indicate .theremaining increment. In this manner, the operator can determine when anew release is required to maintain an adequate supply of gasoline forsubsequent dispensing.

The present invention. employs a coded control circuit, one embodimentof which is. shown in FIG. 2 and hereafter described, for presetting ofthe counter 15 by a predetermined increment. Five switch levers 17 aremounted on the front of the panel 14 for selective positioning in levers17 is made. A key actuated lock 18 is also provided on the front of thepanel 14. The key actuated lock 18 controls a final release switch shownin FIG. 2 to complete the circuit if a proper setting of the levers 3has been established. The key 19 for operation of lock 18 is under thecontrol of the service station operator.

Referring particularly to FIG. 2, the counter 15 is diagrammaticallyshown coupled to a switch 20 in the pump motor control 21 for thepumps 1. When counter 15 is at a zero reading, the switch 20 opens andprevents operation of the pumps. At all other readings of counter 15,the switch 20 is closed to permit pump operation.

A counter preset stepping relay 22 is connected in the output of presetrelease circuit 23 and includes a relay switch deck 24 coupled to presetcounter 15 by a predetermined increment when energized.

The illustrated release circuit includes a suitable DC. power source 25shown as a conventional step-down transformer and a full wave rectifier.

Five code generators 26 are interconnected within the release circuit 23by a bank of five toggle switches 27, each of which is associated withone of the switch levers 17. Generators 26 and switches 27 are connectedin a series to form a coded control circuit 28 which is seriallyconnected with the stepping relay 22 and a key lock operated switch 29to the power source 25. Switch 29 is normally open and controlled by thelock 18. When switch 29 is closed, the relay 22 is energized by currentfrom the power source 25 if toggle switches 27 are properly set.

A disconnect relay 30 is connected in parallel with the coded controlcircuit 28 formed by generators 26 and toggle switches 27 and isresponsive to a predetermined improper operation of the releasemechanism 12 to disenable the release circuit 23 and prevent subsequentoperation.

Each of the toggle switches 27 is of a single-pole double-throwconstruction and includes a contact arm 31 which is selectivelypositioned in engagement with an up contact- 32 or a down contact 33corresponding to the respective position of the associated toggle levers7.. The contacts 32 and 33 are connected to open ends of branch circuitsof the code generators 26.

In the illustrated embodiment of the invention, each of the five codegenerators 26 is similarly constructed and a single generator isdescribed.

The generator 26 includes a pair of cam operated double-poledouble-throw switches 34 and 35 of similar construction. Switch 34includes a pair of contact poles or arms 36 and 37 ganged forsimultaneous and similar positioning. Contacts 38 and 39 are associatedwith the contact arm 36 and the corresponding contacts 40 and 41 areassociated with the contact arm 37. Similarly,

switch 35 includes contact arms 42 and 43 associated respectively withcontacts 44 and 45 and contacts 46 and 47.

A. jumper lead 48 connects the corresponding contacts 38 and 44 ofswitches 34 and 35 and a jumper lead 49 connects the correspondingcontacts 39 and 45. A jumper lead 50 interconnects the contact 40 ofswitch 34 to the opposite contact 47 of switch 35 and a jumper lead 51connects the, contact 41 of switch 34 to the opposite contact 46 ofswitch 35. The contact arms 36 and 37 of switch 34 are interconnected bya jumper lead 52 to form a common input or code generator connection atone end thereof. A jumper lead 53 connects the arm 42 of switch 35 tothe up contact 32 of the associated toggle switch 27 and a jumper lead54 connects the arm 43 of switch 35 to the down contact 33 of the sametoggle switch. 27.

In the illustrated embodiment of the invention, the code generators 26are illustrated in a vertical array and the uppermost generator 26 hasthe common input lead 52 connected to one side of the power source 25 bylead 55 in series with a set of normally open contacts 56-1 of astepping relay 56 and the key lock operated.

switch 29. The same uppermost code generator 26 in the drawing has thecontact arm 31 of the associated toggle switch 27 connected by a jumperlead 57 to the contact arm 31 of the second toggle switch 27 which isassociated with the second code generator 26. The common lead 52 of thesecond code generator 26 is interconnected to the common lead of thethird generator 26. The third, fourth and fifth generators areinterconnected by the toggle switches 27 in the above manner to form thecoded control circuit 28 between the lead 55 and a lead 58 from arm 31of the final toggle switch 27 for selective control of the energizationof the preset stepping relay 22.

The double-pole double-throw switches 34 and 35 establish four parallelbranches via leads 48, 49, 50 and 51, one of which is completed for eachof the four possible relative positions of the contact arm 36, 37, 42and 43. Leads 48 and 49 may complete a path to the upper contact 32 oftoggle switch 27 and leads 50 and 51 may complete a path to the lowercontact 33 of toggle switch 27. Although any one toggle switch 27 can bepositioned by arbitrary positioning of the associated lever 17 in thecorrect position fifty percent of the time, the incorporating of fivecode generators 26 and the five toggle switches 29 in the coded controlcircuit 24 reduces the chance of selecting the correct position of allfive switch levers 17 and associated toggle switches 27 to only one inthirty-two. If this degree of security is not considered sufiicient,additional generators can be provided with each additional generatorreducing the chance of success by two.

The switches 34 of all generators 26 are positioned in a random mannerby the stepping relay 56 and the switches 35 of all generators 26 arerandomly positioned by a similar stepping relay 5 9. 7

Referring particularly to FIGS. 2-4, a rotary magnet type switch relayemployed in telephone connecting systems is shown as illustrative of asuitable stepping relay for the stepping relay 56 and the associatedswitches 34.

The illustrated stepping relay 56 includes an operating coil 60 suitablysecured to a mounting frame 61. An armature 62 is pivotally secured onthe mounting frame 61 adjacent one end of the coil 60 and terminates ina pawl 63. A ratchet wheel 64 is fixed to one end of a hollow shaft 65which is rotatably and coaxially secured on a stationary shaft 66afiixed to the mounting frame 61. Ratchet wheel 64 is aligned with pawl63 for stepped rotary movement as follows. A coil spring 67 has one endsecured to the frame 61 and the opposite end secured to the armature 62and continuously urges the armature 62 to pivot to a retracted positionspaced from the operating coil 60 and engaging wheel 64. When the coil60 is energized, the armature 62 is attracted against the force of thespring 67. The pawl 63 pivots freely over the adjacent tooth of theratchet wheel 64 and is angu larly displaced into alignment with aratchet tooth in accordance with predetermined angular displacement.When the coil 60 is de-energized, the spring 67 pulls the armature 62 tothe retracted position causing the pawl 63 to rotate the ratchet wheel64 and attached shaft 65 through the predetermined angle.

Five cams 68, one for each of the double-pole, doublethrow switches 34,are secured in axially spaced relation to the shaft 65 for simultaneousmovement therewith. The cams 68 are stepped with the ratchet wheel 64and thus establish a plurality of equicir-cumferentially distributedswitch settings positions. Each of the cams 68 includes a plurality ofoperating projections or arms 69 selectively provided in the possibleswitch setting positions. The illustrated switch 34 is shown as aconventional leaf spring construction having the leaf spring contactarms 36 and 37 biased to engage the projections 69 on an aligned cam 68.The positioning of switch 34 is therefor controlled by the presence orthe absence of the projections 69.

Any suitable number of projections can be provided depending upon themaximum number of code settings desired before repetition of thesequence of the code numbers. One cam is shown in FIG. 3, with aplurality of projections 69; for example, ten projections may be assumedto constitute the maximum for any one cam in the illustrated embodimentof the invention for purposes of discussion. The ratchet wheel drive 64is con structed to move the wheel and attached cam 68 through a selectednumber of degrees for each energization and de-energization, dependingupon the number of steps of the relay.

If a projection 69 is aligned with arms 36 and 37, the contacts 39 and41 are engaged. Otherwise, arms 36 and 37 engage contacts 38 and 40.

Referring particularly to FIG. 2, one side of the operating coil 60 ofthe stepping relay 56 is connected to the high voltage side of the powersource 25 by key lock operated switch 29 and the opposite side isserially connected to a ground '70 in series with a set of its ownnormally closed contacts 56-2 and the disconnect relay contacts 30-1 ofthe disconnect relay 39. Upon closing of the key lock operated switch29, coil 60 is energized and retracts its armature 62. The norm-allyclosed contacts 56-2 immediately open and break the circuit whereuponthe force vof spring 67 returns armature 62 to the normal position andsteps the ratchet wheel 64 and attached cams 68. The position of theswitches 34 of all code generators 26 are then set by the new operatingposition of cams 68, depending upon the presence or absence of aprojection 69.

As the coil 60 is de-energized, contacts 56-2 close and :again completean energization circuit. A latching resistor 71 is connected in serieswith a set of normally open contacts 56-3 of the stepping relay 56 inparallel with the normally closed contacts 56-2. The previouslydescribed energization of the coil 60 and the opening of contacts 56-2occurs very rapidly. Upon the second energization of the coil 60 thecontacts 56-3 are closed and insert the resistor 71 in parallel with thenormally closed contacts 56-2. When contacts 56-2 open upon the secondenergization of the coil 60, an energizing circuit for coil 60 ismaintained through the now closed contacts 56-3 and the resistor 71. Thearmature 62 is then held in the retracted position until the key lockswitch 29 is opened at which time coil 60 is de-energized and anotherstep of the cams 68 is effected with the consequent repositioning of theswitches 34.

The normally closed contacts 56-1 of the stepping relay 56 are thenclosed upon the second energization of the coil 60 and connect the highvoltage side of the power source 25 to the common lead 52 of the firstgenerator 26 for actuation of the relay 23 if the toggle switches 27 areproperly set.

The stepping relay 59 is generally similar to the stepping relay 56 butwith a single set of normally closed contacts 59-1 connected in serieswith an operating coil 72 thereof and in parallel with a latchingresistor 73 to ground 74. Upon initial energization of coil 72, thecontacts 59-1 open inserting resistor 73 in series with coil 72 tomaintain energization thereof.

An input lead 75 connects the coil 72 of relay 59 to the switchconnection or jumper lead 49 which interconnects the contacts 39 and 45of switches 34 and 35 in the first generator 26. The stepping relay 59is therefore actuated to step the associated cams, not shown, andreposition the switches 35 only when the circuit through the first codegenerator 26 is completed via the lead 49. Energizing of relay 59 is ina random manner and increases the sequence length or number of differentcode combinations before again repeating the sequence.

Further, the sequence length for different code generators may be variedby varying the number and placement of projections 69 on the appropriatecam.

The counter preset relay 22 is actuated when the coded control circuit28 creates a complete circuit path from the power source to the outputline 58 for presetting of counter 15.

The specific construction of the counter which is actuated by the relay22 may be of any suitable construction for example a magnetically drivencounter 15 having input means responsive to the pulses from transmitters9 to reduce the setting and input responsive to pulses from relay 22 topreset the counter in a predetermined increment for each pulse.

The counter preset stepping relay 23 is generally of the same type asthe stepping relays 56 and 59 and includes an operating winding 76connected in series with a set of normally closed contacts 22-1electromagnetically coupled to and operated thereby. The relay 22includes the first switch deck 24 for operating the counter 15 and asecond switch deck 77 for cycling the operation of the relay 22.

The switch deck 77 includes a contact arm '78 and a series of opencontacts 79 and a final stop contact 80 successively engaged. A resistor81 is connected in parallel with contacts 22-1 by the switch deck 77.When arm 78 engages contact 80, the resistor 81 is connected acrosscontacts 22-1 and maintains energization of winding 76, therebypreventing further stepping of relay 22.

Switch deck 24 is similar in construction to switch deck 77 and includesa contact arm 32 engaging, alternately, pairs of open contacts 83, 84and 85 and pairs of preset contacts 86 and 87 before engaging a singlepreset contact 88 and a final open contact 89. The contacts 86, 87 and88 are connected to a ground 90 and arm 82 is connected to the counter15 which is connected to the high voltage side of power source 25. Theswitch deck 25 is operated in synchronism with the switch deck 77 andestablishes alternate continuity and open circuit to ground for thecounter with each pair of ground and open circuits connections advancethe most significant digit by an increment of one.

The relay '22 has its winding 7 6 connected in series with switch 29,relay contacts 56-1, the coded control circuit 28, a set of normallyopen contacts 56-4 of stepping relay 56 via a lead 91 and the set ofnormally closed contacts 30-1 of disconnect relay 30. Therefore when thetoggle switches 27 .are properly set and switch 29 is closed, thewinding 76 is energized and relay 22 steps through one cycle to presetcounter 15. The gasoline released for Withdrawal from tank 2 isincreased by that increment.

The disconnect relay 30 includes a disconnect relay winding 92 connectedin parallel with the coded control circuit 28 formed by the codegenerators 26 and the toggle switches 27 and between lines 55 and 58.The relay winding 92 is therefore in normal operation of the apparatusshort circuited by the coded control circuit 28 and the relay contacts30-1 remain closed to allow the previously described energization andoperation of the stepping relays 22 and 56.

However, if the key operated switch 29 is closed and the toggle switches27 are not properly placed to complete the coded control circuit 28,power is applied across the relay winding 92 which is energized andopens the contacts 30-1,

The contacts 30-1 include a contact arm 93 engaging an inclined camsurface 94 on the end of a pivoted latch arm 95.

The arm 95 is held by a spring 96 in engagement with a stop pin 97 inthe normal standby position. As contacts 30-1 open, the contact arm 93pivots past the latch arm 95 after which the latch arm 95 returns to thenormal position. The switch arm 93 then engages the back side of thelatch arm 95 and is held in the open position.

Relay 30 is mounted behind panel 14 and a suitable reset lock98 isprovided for resetting of relay 30. The

key, not shown, for lock 98 is held by the supplier.

Lock 98, as diagrammatically shown in FIG. 2, includes a member 99 whichengages the latch arm 95 and pivots 8 it past contact arm 93 whichreturns to the normal position of FIG. 2.

In summary, the illustrated embodiment ofthe invention operates in thefollowing manner.

The gasoline control mechanism 12 is mounted within the wall 13 with thepanel 14 flush thereto to prevent tampering with the code mechanism. Thesequence of the cams 68 is recorded at a control center under theoperation of the supplier of the gasoline.

Whenever an additional increment of gasoline is desired, a code isobtained from the control center informing the operator to place therespective toggle levers 17 in an up or down position. The code may bein any convenient form such as the character 1 for up andthe character 0for down. The levers 17 are correspondingly positioned and the switch 29subsequently closed.

The present code system tends to minimize errors in setting of the codeinput, as the operator can set the levers 17 and then check the settingagainst the code before closing switch 29. This feature is desirable inorder to minimize service calls and maintain customer satisfaction.

Further, the position of the levers 17 is not indicative of the positionof the internal switches such as present in certain code card systemswherein knowledge of the card gives knowledge of the panel. switches. Inthe illustrated embodiment of the invention, the switch lever 17corresponds rather to the logical sum of the paired switches 36-37 and42-43; thus, a lever 17 is up if the corresponding switches 36-37 arethe same as 42-43, and is down if the pair of corresponding switches-36-37 is different from 42-43. In the present. system, even though shortinterval sequences are used, the external levers do not repeatinposition excepting on extremely long sequence.

Immediately upon closing of switch 29, the stepping relay 22: isenergized if the coded control circuit 28 has been completed by propersetting of levers 17 and the associated switches 27. Relay 22 operatesthrough one cycle and presets the. counter 15 in accordance with apredetermined increment.

After completion of the cycle of. the relay 22 which is noted by thepresetting of the counter 15,. the' key actuated switch 29-is opened toreturn the control mechanism to standby. Relay 22 automaticallyresets-in any suitable manner, not shown.

As previouslyv described, the opening of switch 29' results in thede-energization of relay 56' and stepping thereof to reposition switches34 and establish a new code setting. Relay 59 may or may not beenergized. depending upon whether the code included line 59 of thefirst. codegenerator 26, and correspondingly position the switches 35for further modification of the code setting.

If the switch levers 17 are erroneously or through attempted fraudimproperly set, the coded control circuit 28. remains open and thedisconnect relay 30 is energized. The associated contacts 30-1 open andare held in the open position by the latch arm 95. No

further operation of the circuit is then possible and in order to obtaina subsequent release, the disconnect relay 30 must be manually reset bya suitable authorized representative. skipping one code inthe masterlist'held at the central control office.

Although the illustrated embodiment of the invention employs circuitcontinuity in the coded control circuit for proper operation of thecontrolled means, a unique open circuit path or combinations thereofmight be. employed within the scope of the present invention.

The present invention provides a simple and reliable code mechanismestablishing a code sequence of substantial length before repetition. Agreat variety of different code sequences can be rapidly and readilyestablished from identical or similar components. for. pro.-

The next proper code is obtained by ducing a number of code mechanismsfor use in related areas or installations.

Various modes of carrying out the invention are contemplated as beingwithin the scope of the following claims particularly pointing out anddistinctly claiming the subject matter which is regarded as theinvention.

We claim:

1. In a code program generating means,

(a) a plurality of code generators, each including a pair of similarmultiple position switches interconnected to the opposite ends ofconductors to form parallel circuit branches one of which is completedin each switch position,

(b) first drive means to simultaneously actuate first correspondingswitches in each pair of switches,

() second drive means to simultaneously actuate second correspondingswitches of each pair of switches, and

(d) means to actuate said drive means in a predetermined differentcircuit connection within said code generators.

2. In a code program generating means according to claim 1 wherein saidlast named means includes,

(a) cyclically operable means movable in stepped relation within eachcycle to actuate said drive means in a predetermined plurality of stepsand generate a plurality of predetermined different circuit connectionwithin said code generators.

3. The code program generating means of claim 1 including,

(a) a plurality of individual switches connecting said code generatorsin an output circuit, each of said switches having a plurality ofpositions operatively connected to different parallel circuit branchesof a corresponding code generator.

4. In a code program generating means,

(a) a plurality of code generators, each including a pair of similarmultiple position switches interconnected to the opposite ends ofconductors to form parallel circuit branches one of which is completedin each switch position,

(b) a plurality of first cams interconnected for simultaneousincremental displacement and having a plurality of switch operatorsspatially distributed in accordance with said displacement forsuccessive and simultaneous actuation of switches connected to thecorresponding ends of the conductors in the code generators,

(c) a plurality of second cams interconnectedfor simultaneousincremental displacement and having a plurality of switch operatorsspatially distributed in accordance with said displacement forsuccessive and simultaneous actuation of the switches connected to theopposite ends of the conductor in the code generators,

(d) drive means to move said cams and actuate the switches to generate aplurality of predetermined different circuit connections within saidcode generators, and

(e) a plurality of selection switch means interconnecting said codegenerators in a coded output circuit and each including means to selectone of said parallel circuit branches of each generator.

5. The code program generating means of claim 4 wherein said drive meansincludes (a) a first stepping relay coupled to drive said first camsthrough said incremental displacements,

(b) a second stepping relay coupled to drive said second cams throughsaid incremental displacements,

(c) an energizing circuit for said first stepping relay,

and I (d) a separate energizing circuit for said second stepping relayand including switch means operated by said first stepping relay.

6. The code program generating means of claim 4 wherein said selectionmeans comprises (a) manually operable switches connecting said codegenerators in an output circuit, each of said switches having aplurality of code positions connected to different parallel circuitbranches.

7. The code program generating means of claim 4 wherein (a) eachgenerator has a pair of output points one of which is connected to thecomplete circuit branch,

(b) the selection means is a selection switch for selective connectionto said output points for connecting said code generators in an, outputcircuit,

(c) switch levers are provided for selective positioning of each of saidselection switches, and

(d) a control switch is serially connected in an energizing circuit withthe coded output circuit.

8. In a code program generating means,

(a) a plurality of code generators each including a pair of double-poleand double-throw switches, each pair having aligned poles forsimultaneous movement and having the coresponding contacts of the firsthalf of each pair of switches being interconnected and oppositecont-acts of the second half of each pair of switches beinginterconnected,

(b) a common generator connection to each code generator being connectedin common to the poles of one of said switches,

(c) a single-pole, double-throw switch having contacts individuallyconnected one each to each of the poles of the other of said switchesand having a pole constituting a second generator connection of thecorresponding code generator,

((1) circuit means interconnecting said generator connections to connectsaid code generators in a series coded output circuit,

(e) electroresponsive means actuating a step drive to effect a stepmovement in response to energization and de-energ-ization thereof andhaving a set of normally closed contacts connected in series with theelectroresponsive means to form an input circuit thereto and having afirst set of normally open contacts and a resistor connected in parallelwith said normally closed contacts and a second set of normally opencontacts connected in series with the coded output circuit :and having athird set of normally open contacts,

(f) means coupled to said ratchet drive and having spaced cam surfacesaligned one each with the aligned poles of one of said pair of switchesin each of said code generators,

(g) a second electroresponsive means actuating a second step to effect astepped movement in response .to energization and tie-energizationthereof and having a set of normally closed contacts connected in serieswith the electroresponsive means to form an input circuit thereto andhaving a resistor connected in parallel with said normally closedcontacts, one end of said input circuit being connected to one of saidinterconnected contacts of the code generator connected to said normallyopen contacts of the first named electroresponsive means wherebyenergization of said second electroresponsive means is dependent on thestatus of said interconnected generaton and (h) means coupled to theratchet drive of said second stepping relay and having spaced camsurfaces aligned one each with the aligned poles of the other of saidpair of switches in each of said code generators.

9. In a code program generating means,

(a) a plurality of code generators each including a pair of double-poleand double-throw switches each having a first half and a second half,corresponding contacts of the first half of each pair of switches einginterconnected and opposite contacts of the second half of each pair ofswitches being interconnected,

(b) a common generator connection to each code generator being connectedin common to the poles of one of said switches,

(c) a similar plurality of single-pole, double-throw switches havingcontacts individually connected one each to each of the poles of theother switch of said' pair of switches and a pole constituting a secondgenerator connection of the corresponding code generator,

(d) circuit means interconnecting said generator connections to connectsaid code generators in a series coded output circuit,

(e) a stepping relay having a relay coil and a ratchet drive actuatedthereby to efiect a step movement in response to energization andde-energiz'ation thereof and having a set of normally closed contactsconnected in series with the relay coil to form an input circuit of therelay and a first set of normally open contacts and a resistor connectedin parallel with said normally open contacts and a second set ofnormally open contacts connected in series with the codedoutput circuit,

(f) rotary cams releasably coupled to said ratchet drive, a separaterotary cam being aligned with the aligned poles of a first of said pairof switches in eachcode generators and having circumferentially spacedperipheral cam surfaces,

(g) a second stepping relay having a relay coil and ratchet driveactuated thereby to efiect a stepped movement in response toenergization and de-energization thereof and having a set of normallyclosed contacts connected in series with the relay coil to form'an inputcircuit of the second stepping relay and having a resistor connected inparallel with said normally closed contacts, one end of said inputcircuit being connected to one of said interconnected contacts of thecode generator connected to said normally open contacts of the firststepping relay whereby energization of said second stepping relay isdependent on the status of said interconnected generator,

(h) rotary cams releasably coupled to the second ratchet drive, aseparate cam being aligned with the common poles of the other of saidpair of switches in each code genera-tors and having circumferentiallyspaced peripheral cam surfaces, and

(i) a disconnect relay having a relay coil and having a set of normallyclosed contacts connected in series with the input circuit of said firstnamed stepping said output circuit to reset at least one of said codeswitches and thereby vary the position of the release switches foroperation of the output circuit. 11. The construct-ion of claim 10having,

7 (a) switch means connected in circuit with said load,

and (b) means responsive to predetermined operation of said outputcircuit to actuate said switch means. 12. A code program generatingsystem, which comprises (a) a plurality of code generators, each of saidcode generators having a plurality of branch circuits and a first switchmeans to selectively close some of said branch circuits andsimultaneously open the other of said branch circuits,

('b) :a selectively positioned second switch means connected in seriesbetween each of said code generators and having a first positionconnecting selected branch circuits of adjacent generators to each otherand having a second position connecting different selected 'branchcircuits of the same adjacent genera-tors to each other,

(0) control circuit means having input power connection means and outputconnection means connected with said second switch means and said codegenerators, said first switch means determining a required relatedsetting of the record switch means to complete the circuit of the inputpower connection means to the output connection means, and

('d) first switch actuating means coupled to the first switch means tocyclically change said branch circuits to find an' open connection ofthe power connection means to the output connection means and therebychange the required position of saidsecond switch means for the nextoperation.

References Cited by the Examiner UNITED" STATES PATENTS relay andseparately in circuit with the coded output 2,441,136 5/1948 Charles34O*348 circuit, said relay coil being connected in parallel 2,622,14512/1952 Kennedy with the series coded output circuit and energized2,660,720 11/1953 Dehmel if said coded output circuit is interrupted.,68 4 9 Ha k 34 8 10. Ina code program generating means for selective3,187,318 v6/ 1965 Chapman 340-348 energization of a load from a powersource, FOREIGN PATENTS (a) a plurality of code generators eachincluding a pair'of double-pole and double-throw code switches, 327,8843/1958 swltzerlan'dcorresponding contacts of the first half of each pairof switches being interconnected and opposite contacts of the secondhalf of each pair of switches being interconnected,

NEIL C. READ, Primary Examiner.

THOMAS B. HABECKER, Examiner,

1. IN A CODE PROGRAM GENERATING MEANS, (A) A PLURALITY OF CODEGENERATORS, EACH INCLUDING A PAIR OF SIMILAR MULTIPLE POSITION SWITCHESINTERCONNECTED TO THE OPPOSITE ENDS OF CONDUCTORS TO FORM PARALLELCIRCUIT BRANCHES ONE OF WHICH IS COMPLETED IN EACH SWITCH POSITION, (B)FIRST DRIVE MEANS TO SIMULTANEOUSLY ACTUATE FIRST CORRESPONDING SWITCHESIN EACH PAIR OF SWITCHES, (C) SECOND DRIVE MEANS TO SIMULTANEOUSLYACTUATE SECOND CORRESPONDING SWITCHES OF EACH PAIR OF SWITCHES, AND